TENNESSEE -- A 13-year-old boy is at Le Bonheur tonight recovering from a camel attack on his grandfather's farm in Fayette County.
Trip Knight, III is expected to survive, but he may have permanent damage from the camel attack.
Some neighbors along the remote stretch of Monkhouse Road near Somerville were unaware camels were kept nearby, but they hate hearing one of them injured a 13-year-old boy.
"I hate anything about a kid getting hurt because I got kids and grand kids and wouldn't want them to get hurt," said neighbor Mike Watkins.
Fayette County Sheriff's Office investigators say Knight was injured last week while trying to put a harness on one of his grandfather's camels.
The animal attacked, knocked Trip to the ground and broke bones in his face and head.
"Any animals got their own mind and can do anything at any time," said Watkins.
Neighbors say the camels are kept more than a mile off the road where Trip's grandfather also raises horses.
Most people picture camels in the desert, but they are domesticated in the U.S. as well. A special license isn't required in Tennessee to own them.
One neighbor said she once met the camel in question and that it was aggressive.
Neighbors are praying for Trip Knight's recovery.
A family member said they appreciate the thoughts and prayers. Meanwhile, he is expected to undergo more surgery Tuesday.
(WCM-TV - March 19, 2012)
